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Hi K-F Etzold, Carline and All, Well, a mechanic just interpreted the words of a U.S. Senator without a lawyer? What will he think of next? Now he's gonna tell you how to write a letter? Scary!!! Writing Effective Letters To Washington D.C. The Basics | Following Up | Most Importantly Have you ever wanted to write Representatives or Senators regarding an issue, but wouldn't because you didn't think that your opinion would have any impact? If this is the case you are not alone. Most Americans never write their representatives, but for those who do, it indicates they care about an issue. Every personal letter written to Congress represents the opinions of 500 voters who did not take the few moments to write. Not writing doesn't seem logical since Congress makes decisions regarding jobs, families, the nation, and the future.Your opinion matters and needs to be voiced. Members of Congress are elected to represent you and if they don't know how you feel, what good can they do in Washington? The most effective way to communicate with members of Congress is to write letters. It is as easy as writing a letter home to mom and dad. The Basics Here are a few easy steps to guide you through writing an effective letter to Washington D.C. 1. Personalize the letter. Your personal views are very important. Use your own stationery. Neatness matters so type the letter if possible. 2. Include your address in the letter. 3. Use your own words. Do not use technical words. Most importantly, do not use a form letter. Form letters are not effective in expressing your personal opinion. 4. Focus on the issue. In order for your main concern to be effectively understood, only discuss that particular issue. Save other concerns for future communications. 5. Personalize the issue. Address the issue in regard to how it will affect you, your family, and your friends. 6. Be concise. State your position in a letter of no more than two pages. 7. Identify the legislation. If possible, state its name so the legislator can clearly understand the issue and arguments you are concerned with. 8. Know the facts. legislators easily obtain information about most issues. Be sure to check your facts. Often times your opinion will be ignored if several statements are inaccurate. 9. Be courteous and positive. Personal attacks will get you nowhere. Even if you disagree with the legislator's position, be straightforward in your explanation. His/her opinion could change if you enough people agree with you and communicate their views. 10. Request a response stating your representative's position. Asking for a reply will show that you are genuinely concerned and will see it through to it's conclusion. 11. Write as soon as possible. Do not wait to write. An effective letter should be received by the legislator before he/she has taken his/her position. Following Up 1. If you receive a positive reply, send a response thanking the representative. Be sure to ask to continue to be informed about the status of the issue. 2. If you receive a negative reply, politely and firmly respond by stating your arguments against that position. Your response could change his/her position. Send a copy to the director of the representative's local office. The staff may lobby on your behalf. 3. If you do not receive a reply within 3-4 weeks, call the legislative assistant in charge of that issue. Call the Capitol switchboard at (202) 224-3121. Most of the people on staff are busy, but speaking with constituents is an integral part of their job. Continue to call the office until your concern is discussed. Most Importantly 1. Write to the representatives that represent you. 2. Send an original letter each time you write to your representative. Copies have little or no impact and often do not get replies. 3. Continue to pursue the issue after the first letter or call. 4. Continue communication with your representative about other issues that concern you. http://www.lcu.edu/sife/SifeBytes/letters.htm Okay, I'll 'fess up.... I sucked the foregoing off a web site and cut 'n pasted it here... Works for me.... I hope the folks at Lubbock Christian University understand that I found their material appealed to me and addressed the topic perfectly IMHO. Best regards ............ murray [log in to unmask]